That rarest of rare things - a truly engaging Nicolas Cage film.  I've never been much impressed by Nicolas Cage (née Coppola, which may explain some of his acclaim), and in fact usually have a fairly hostile reaction to his roles.  Outside of Raising Arizona, I'm not sure anything he's done has been deserving of the raves normally tossed his way.  And that's why I haven't seen this movie until now.  However, just having watched it, I'm giving it up for Mr. Cage.  Maybe he's just extremely good at playing self-destructive drunks, but honestly who cares.  He's great in this movie, and so is Elisabeth Shue.  The soundtrack is unbelievably good, with Sting providing the vocals over a selection of jazz standards, including a transcendent "My One And Only Love".  If you haven't seen this movie, give Nicolas a chance.  It's worth the time.